Best Beaches in Paros
Local picks for wind, mood, and easy beach days.
Paros has everything from long sandy bays to quiet coves, rock pools, and water sports. Use this guide to pick the best beach in Paros for today based on wind, crowd level, and what your group actually wants.
What you’ll find here:
The best beaches for Meltemi (north wind) days
Where to go with kids, where to go for quiet, and where to go for music and energy
Simple beach day combos that link beaches with nearby villages, boat tours, experiences, and day trips
This is your Paros beach “home base”, connect it with the other main guides like: Experiences In Paros | Things To Do In Paros | Villages Of Paros |Where To Stay In Paros | Boat Tours In Paros | Day Trips From Paros.
Best Beaches in Paros at a Glance
Pick a mood, then tap through to the full guide for photos, parking, wind notes, and local tips.
Sunrise: east and southeast.
Sunset: west side near Parikia.
Top 10 Overall Beaches In Paros
Tap a beach for the full guide, or open Local Notes for quick tips.
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti)
Family-friendly sandy beach with water sports.
Local Notes
If you only do one big sandy beach day in Paros, this is usually the safest bet. It’s long, spacious, and has that classic summer feel without being too intense, especially in the morning and late afternoon.
- Why locals pick it: soft sand, shallow entry, space to spread out, and watersports when you want action.
- Meltemi note: often a solid choice on northerly wind days compared to the north side.
- Easy plan: beach first, then lunch in Drios or Piso Livadi, and finish the day in Naoussa or Lefkes.
- Getting around: if you want to beach hop easily, see Rentals in Paros or Taxi transfers.
Kolymbithres Beach
Iconic granite coves, shallow clear “pools”, pure photo beach.
Local Notes
This is the iconic Paros rock-and-cove beach. The granite formations create little natural “pools” with shallow, clear water that looks unreal on calm days.
- What it’s best for: photos, exploring tiny coves, calm swims between rock formations.
- Crowds: it gets very busy in peak season, go early or later in the afternoon.
- Easy plan: combine with Monastiri and a short walk in Paros Park, then dinner in Naoussa.
- Extra option: in season you can also mix it with a day on the water via boat tours in Paros.
Kalogeros Beach
The clay beach, calm vibe, protected bay, feels like a secret.
Local Notes
Kalogeros is the clay beach. It feels calmer and more “local secret” than the famous north beaches, and it’s a great pick on meltemi days because the bay is protected.
- How to do the clay: cover with clay from the cliff, let it dry 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse in the sea.
- Access: easiest by car or scooter, it’s not a hop-off-the-bus beach day.
- Local tip: place towels and bags a bit higher on the sand. Occasionally a bigger set of waves can roll in from far offshore.
- Easy plan: pair it with Molos, then sunset wander in Marmara or Lefkes.
Santa Maria Beach
Two moods in one place, relaxed side + beach club energy side.
Local Notes
Santa Maria gives you a bit of everything. One side leans beach club and energy, the other side is more relaxed, with long sandy stretches and shallow water.
- Vibe: lively without going full Mykonos, especially if you pick the calmer side.
- Good nearby adds: Small Santa Maria for a cute cove, or Laggeri for quieter corners.
- Easy plan: beach, then evening in Naoussa.
Faraggas Beach
South coast turquoise bay, relaxed with a lively bar zone in peak.
Local Notes
Classic south coast turquoise. Faraggas is a sandy bay with one main beach bar area and quieter space if you walk a bit. It’s a great “easy yes” when the north is windy.
- Vibe: relaxed, can get lively near the bar in peak season.
- Wind note: generally more sheltered than the north side on meltemi days.
- Easy plan: combine with Aliki for sunset and dinner, or add a second swim at Agia Irini if you want a smaller bay.
Monastiri Beach
The “easy yes” on windy days, very shallow, super family-friendly.
Local Notes
One of the safest choices when the meltemi is strong. It’s protected, shallow, and easy for families, with services right on the sand.
- Why it works: very shallow water, protected bay, always “easy mode” for a beach day.
- Crowds: it can get packed, arrive early in July and August.
- Easy plan: pair with Kolymbithres, then a short walk in Paros Park, finish in Naoussa.
Drios Beach
Authentic village swim, picturesque, best used as a base for east and south beaches.
Local Notes
Drios beach itself is definitely an all-day destination. Additionally, the real value is using Drios as a base for the south and east beaches.
- Best use: morning at Golden Beach or New Golden, lunch in Drios, then a second swim.
- Access: easy by car, scooter, and bus, which makes it practical.
- Planning: great base if you are mixing beach days with experiences in Paros or things to do in Paros.
Molos Beach
Long, open, sandy, quiet even in August, locals love it.
Local Notes
Molos is one of those beaches locals recommend because it feels open and simple. Long, shallow, sandy, usually no loud setups, and it has big views across to Naxos.
Agia Irini Beach
Small “Palm Beach” near Parikia, pretty stop, popular because it’s easy.
Local Notes
Agia Irini is the small “Palm Beach” near Parikia. It’s pretty, compact, and popular, great for a shorter beach stop or a second swim before sunset in town.
- Crowds: it gets busy in summer because it’s small.
- Wind note: better on southerly or calmer days, can feel more exposed on strong northerlies.
- Easy plan: pair with Parasporos and then wander Parikia for sunset.
Parasporos Beach
Wide social beach near Parikia, great for sunset and a lively swim day.
Local Notes
Parasporos is the social sunset side near Parikia. It’s wide, sandy, and popular with younger travellers and groups who want an easy beach day close to town.
- Vibe: music, energy, and a more social feel than the quieter south coast bays.
- Best time: late afternoon into sunset, then straight into Parikia.
- Easy plan: combine with Agia Irini, then a night stroll around town.
Beaches by Area
North Side, Naoussa and Paros Park
(iconic rock formations, lively bays, family shallows)
Small Santa Maria Beach
Cute compact cove, very shallow, can be packed because it’s small.
Local Notes
Small Santa Maria is a compact, cute cove near Santa Maria. Sandy, shallow, and it can feel crowded fast because the bay is small.
- Why locals pick it: quick, easy swim in a tucked-in feeling spot.
- Timing tip: go early in peak season if you want the calm version.
- Easy plan: pair with Santa Maria, then head to Naoussa for food.
- Getting around: simplest by car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Laggeri Beach
Dunes and quiet corners across from Santa Maria, wild, sometimes naturist.
Local Notes
Laggeri is the quieter, more wild-feeling side of the bay from Santa Maria. Dunes, scrub, and pockets that feel far from the beach club mood.
- Why locals pick it: calmer corners, slower pace, and a more natural setting.
- Wind note: best on calm or lighter winds, more exposed on strong northerlies.
- Easy plan: Laggeri plus Palio Karnagio or Platia Ammos, then dinner in Naoussa.
- Getting around: easier with a car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Palio Karnagio Beach
Small cove by the old shipyard, super clear water, great snorkel spot.
Local Notes
A small cove near the old shipyard. Clear water, sand and rocks, and it feels like a spot you have to know about.
- Why locals pick it: snorkeling, fishing, and that “hidden in plain sight” feeling.
- Wind note: good on calm and southerly days, not great on strong northerlies.
- Easy plan: Palio Karnagio plus Laggeri, then Naoussa for dinner.
- Getting around: car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Platia Ammos Beach
Secluded Naoussa-area cove, best on calm days when you want quiet.
Local Notes
Secluded and easy to love when you hit it at the right time. If you time it well, you might share it with only a few people.
- Why locals pick it: quiet, simple, and feels far from the “main beach circuit”.
- Wind note: terrible on strong northerlies, ideal on calm or southerly days.
- Easy plan: Platia Ammos plus Laggeri, then Naoussa.
- Getting around: car or scooter recommended, see Rentals in Paros.
Agioi Anargyroi Beach
Easy Naoussa-edge sandy swim, super convenient if you’re staying nearby.
Local Notes
A town-edge beach near Naoussa. Very convenient for a quick swim day when you want easy access more than “wild beach” vibes.
- Why locals use it: quick dip, then straight back into Naoussa for food and drinks.
- Wind note: fine on calm and southerly days, less pleasant on very strong northerlies.
- Easy plan: swim here, then wander Naoussa.
- Getting around: easiest on foot if you stay nearby, otherwise use Taxi transfers in Paros or Rentals in Paros.
Ampelas Beach
Easy village bay near Naoussa, calm swim, and super convenient low-effort beach day.
Local Notes
Ampelas is a classic “easy win” when you want a relaxed swim close to Naoussa without the full chaos of the most famous north beaches. It feels local, simple, and very doable for a quick beach break.
- Why locals pick it: convenient village beach energy, easy swim, and you can turn it into a no-planning day.
- Wind note: generally fine on lighter northerlies, if it is howling, you will usually feel it more on the north side.
- Easy plan: swim at Ampelas, then head into Naoussa for a walk and dinner, or link it with Kolymbithres on a day you want iconic views.
- Getting around: easiest by car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros, or use Taxi transfers in Paros for a simple round trip.
Kolymbithres Beach
Iconic granite coves, shallow clear “pools”, pure photo beach.
Santa Maria Beach
Two moods in one place, relaxed side + beach club energy side.
Monastiri Beach
The “easy yes” on windy days, very shallow, super family-friendly.
East and Southeast Beaches
(calmer on meltemi days, lots of favourites)
New Golden Beach (Nea Chrissi)
Sporty neighbour of Golden, loved by windsurfers, nicer swims on lighter wind.
Local Notes
Right next to Golden Beach. When the wind is up it turns into a windsurf and wingfoil magnet, and on lighter wind days it’s a really nice swim.
- Why locals pick it: sporty vibe, usually less “classic family beach” intensity than Golden.
- Wind note: this is where you come if you enjoy the wind more than flat water.
- Easy plan: New Golden for action, then a softer afternoon at Golden Beach, then dinner in Drios.
- Getting around: bus can work, but hopping between beaches is easiest with Rentals in Paros.
Punda Beach (East coast)
Sandy, with beach clubs and a good atmosphere, but not a full party.
Local Notes
Not to be confused with Pounda on the west. This Punda near Logaras is sandy with an easy holiday vibe, music and tavernas close by.
- Best for: atmosphere and comfort without going full party beach.
- Wind note: usually fine on northerly winds.
- Easy plan: combine Punda, Logaras, and Piso Livadi, then late afternoon in Marpissa or Lefkes.
- Getting around: easiest by car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Lolantonis Beach
Pretty bay that still feels like a secret, relaxed even in August, great snorkel edges.
Local Notes
Lolantonis stays relaxed even in August. There’s one restaurant and a few sunbeds if you want them, but it’s still easy to do your own towel day.
- Why locals pick it: that “secret bay” feel with just enough comfort nearby.
- Best corner: rocky ends are ideal for snorkeling.
- Easy plan: pair with Tripiti, or do Lolantonis plus lunch in Drios.
- Getting around: car or scooter recommended, see Rentals in Paros.
Tripiti Beach
Small old-Paros cove, snorkel sides, feels discovered, not “built.”
Local Notes
Tripiti feels like a place you find rather than a big organised destination. A small cove with clear water and rocky sides that make the snorkeling fun.
- Why locals pick it: calm vibe, less crowded, and you can mix sand time with exploring the edges.
- Wind note: works very well on northerly winds.
- Easy plan: Tripiti plus Lolantonis, then dinner in Drios or Marpissa.
- Getting around: no direct bus, you want a car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Drios Beach
Authentic village swim, picturesque, best used as a base for east and south beaches.
Molos Beach
Long, open, sandy, quiet even in August, locals love it.
Logaras Beach
Relaxed sandy beach with tavernas, classic Greek summer, super convenient.
Local Notes
Easy, simple, convenient. Logaras has that classic Greek summer feeling with tavernas right there and an easy sandy swim.
- Why locals pick it: you can do swim, food, and repeat without any stress.
- Wind note: well protected on northerly winds.
- Easy plan: combine Logaras with Piso Livadi, then evening in Lefkes.
- Getting around: bus stop is close, or use Rentals in Paros for beach hopping.
Piso Livadi Beach
Harbour-side sandy swim with seafood and cafés, perfect “no effort” beach day.
Local Notes
Piso Livadi is all about atmosphere. A small sandy beach next to the harbour, lined with fish tavernas and cafés, so the whole day feels easy.
- Why locals pick it: swim, shower, seafood lunch, drink, all without moving the car.
- Wind note: quite protected on both northerly and southerly winds.
- Easy plan: pair with Logaras, then add Marpissa or Lefkes.
- Getting around: bus stop is right there, or go flexible with Rentals in Paros.
Tsoukalia Beach
Wild northeast stretch with waves on windier days, remote and uncrowded.
Local Notes
Tsoukalia is more remote and wild-feeling. Sand mixed with pebbles and rock, and it can get rough when the wind is up.
- Why locals go: space, raw coastline feeling, and zero “beach club” energy.
- Wind note: exposed on northerlies, better on calm or southerly days.
- Easy plan: combine with Molos and an evening in Marmara.
- Getting around: you want a car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Golden Beach (Chrissi Akti)
Family-friendly sandy beach with water sports.
West Side and Parikia Beaches
(sunsets, easy access, good last day choices)
Delfini Beach
Smaller Parikia-area bay for a swim and a drink without going far.
Local Notes
Delfini is a handy smaller bay near Parikia. Great when you want a simple swim and something easy nearby, without heading across the island.
- Why locals use it: quick beach time, then straight back toward town.
- Wind note: better on southerly or calm days.
- Easy plan: Delfini plus Parasporos, then sunset in Parikia.
- Getting around: easiest by car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Livadia Beach (Parikia beach)
Parikia town beach, extremely practical on arrival or lazy days.
Local Notes
Livadia is the town beach of Parikia. Best for arrival and departure days, families who want zero driving, and anyone who wants easy beach time close to everything.
- Why locals use it: simple swim without planning, then straight into town.
- Easy plan: Livadia swim, then explore Parikia old town, and finish with sunset on the promenade.
- Good to know: locals usually prefer the south and east when they have time, mainly for more space and a “further from town” feel.
- Getting around: you can walk it, or use Taxi transfers in Paros for an easy day.
Krios Beach
Turquoise water near Parikia, organised, great “town plus beach” combo.
Local Notes
Krios has some of the nicest water colours near Parikia. It’s an easy organised beach day with a view back to town.
- Why locals pick it: you get the beach feel and still stay close to Parikia.
- Wind note: usually works on northerlies thanks to the shape of the bay.
- Easy plan: combine with Marcelo, then sunset and dinner in Parikia.
- Getting around: car or scooter is easiest, see Rentals in Paros.
Marcelo Beach
Next to Krios, same turquoise vibe, easy swim day near Parikia.
Local Notes
Right next to Krios with similar turquoise water and sand. Some people prefer Marcelo for the swimming feel, others prefer Krios. Both work.
- Why locals pick it: easy beach day near town with great water colour.
- Easy plan: Marcelo plus Krios, then dinner in Parikia.
- Best vibe: go earlier or later in the day if you want less peak crowd energy.
- Getting around: easiest with Rentals in Paros or Taxi transfers in Paros.
Agia Irini Beach
Small “Palm Beach” near Parikia, pretty stop, popular because it’s easy.
Parasporos Beach
Wide social beach near Parikia, great for sunset and a lively swim day.
Pounda Beach (West coast)
Wind sports hub by the Antiparos channel, famous for kitesurfing.
Local Notes
This is the wind sports side of Paros near the Antiparos ferry. If you want a calm swim and quiet reading, this is not your place. If you want to watch or try kitesurfing or windsurfing, it’s perfect.
- Why locals go: action, riders, and watching the channel when it’s firing.
- Wind note: usually windy, which is the point.
- Easy plan: Pounda session, then switch to something calmer like Voutakos, or add a day trip from Paros.
- Getting around: bus to the port zone can work, but flexibility is best with Rentals in Paros.
South and Southwest Beaches
(quieter, romantic, family friendly, many meltemi-safe)
Agios Nikolaos Beach (Aliki)
Calm sandy bay near Aliki, shallow and peaceful, easy family beach.
Local Notes
A calm sandy bay near Aliki with shallow water and a peaceful feel. Great for simple beach time without heavy infrastructure.
- Why locals pick it: easy family swim day on the south side.
- Easy plan: Agios Nikolaos, then Aliki for food, plus a quick stop at Piso Aliki or Makria Miti.
- Wind note: quite protected on northerlies.
- Getting around: car, scooter, or bus to Aliki then short walk. See Rentals in Paros.
Aliki Beach
Gentle sandy family beach with fish tavernas, calm rhythm, classic south-side base.
Local Notes
Aliki feels like a softer, quieter version of Naoussa with a strong family vibe. Gentle sandy beach, very shallow water, and fish tavernas along the shore.
- Why locals pick it: swim, food, and a calm day that does not feel rushed.
- Easy plan: Aliki swim, then walk to Piso Aliki or hop to Agios Nikolaos, then dinner in Aliki.
- Good to know: it links nicely with Boat tours in Paros for a non-beach day.
- Getting around: easy by bus or car, see Rentals in Paros.
Makria Miti Beach
Small “secret pocket” cove near Aliki, clear water, great snorkeling.
Local Notes
Makria Miti feels like a little secret pocket near Aliki. Clear water, rocks, and very good snorkeling.
- Why locals pick it: calmer atmosphere and better snorkeling than the main sandy bays.
- Access tip: dirt road then short walk, go slow and bring water.
- Easy plan: Makria Miti, then Agios Nikolaos and food in Aliki.
- Getting around: you want a car or scooter, see Rentals in Paros.
Piso Aliki Beach
More raw and open than Aliki, informal towel beach, bring your own shade.
Local Notes
Just a short walk from Aliki, Piso Aliki feels more open and raw. More informal vibe where people bring their own shade and snacks.
- Why locals pick it: the “do your own thing” version of an Aliki day.
- Easy plan: swim at Aliki, then Piso Aliki for a quieter stretch, then dinner in Aliki.
- Wind note: good on northerlies.
- Getting around: bus to Aliki then walk, or easier with Rentals in Paros.
Voutakos Beach
Turquoise water near Parikia, organised, great “town plus beach” combo.
Local Notes
Voutakos is a quiet bay facing Antiparos, more about solitude and big sky than services.
- Why locals pick it: when you want quiet, not music, not crowds, just sea and space.
- Wind note: best on calm or light wind days.
- Easy plan: Voutakos swim, then food in Aliki, or pair it with Pounda if your group has mixed moods.
- Bonus: it links nicely with a day trip from Paros.
Faraggas Beach
South coast turquoise bay, relaxed with a lively bar zone in peak.
Hidden Coves and Secret Spots
Paros still has a handful of tiny coves, cliff spots and special sunrise and sunset corners that locals are careful about sharing publicly.
If you prefer a quiet cove over a line of sunbeds and DJ speakers, keep an eye out for a dedicated Hidden Coves of Paros guide. Receive exact spots, when to go, where to park safely and how to respect the place.
These secret corners link beautifully with:
How to Use This Beaches Guide With the Rest of Your Planning
Once you understand how each side of Paros behaves, it becomes easy to build days that flow well.
Use this page to choose which coast works best for the wind that day and the mood of your group.
Combine one or two beaches with a village visit, an experience like a cooking class, pottery workshop, FPV drone adventure or stargazing, plus one of the best things to do in Paros such as a boat tour or short hike.
Think about where you stay. If you stay in Naoussa, this page shows which beaches you can reach easily without a car. The same for Parikia, Drios, Aliki, Golden Beach area or Piso Livadi.
For transport, you can get around with buses in summer, but renting a car or ATV in Paros makes beach hopping much easier and lets you explore the quieter south east and inland roads without rushing. Private transfers in Paros are another good option if you prefer not to drive but still want easy movement between beaches, villages and your base.
You do not need to see every single beach. Picking a few of the best beaches in Paros that really match your style, and leaving space for slow moments and repeat visits, usually creates the best kind of holiday.
Best Beaches in Paros: FAQs
What are the best beaches in Paros for first-timers?
If you only pick a few, start with Golden Beach (Chrisi Akti) for easy sand and water sports, Kolymbithres for smooth granite formations, and Faragas for a calm, protected cove with a taverna. Add Molos or Kalogeros if you want a quieter, more natural vibe.
Which beaches are best when the Meltemi blows?
On northerly winds, head south and east: Molos, Kalogeros, Drios, Logaras, Golden Beach, Aliki, Makria Miti, Tripiti, and Faragas stay much calmer near shore. Mornings are usually gentler, winds pick up around noon and ease again late afternoon.
Where should I go on rare southerly winds?
Choose the north and northwest: Santa Maria, Small Santa Maria, Kolymbithres, Naoussa Bay spots like Agioi Anargyroi, Platia Ammos, Palio Karnagio, and Laggeri. You will get more shelter and flatter water.
Best family beaches with shallow entry?
Golden Beach, Molos, Santa Maria, Krios, Marcelo, and Aliki. They have sandy entry, space for sandcastles, and options for snacks or sunbeds. For extra calm on windy days, pick south and east coasts.
Where are the quiet, non-organized beaches?
Try Molos, Kalogeros (bring your own shade), Tripiti, Makria Miti, Platia Ammos, Palio Karnagio, Tsoukalia, and parts of Logaras and Agios Nikolaos. Carry water, snacks, and a hat, since facilities are limited.
What is the clay beach and how do I use it?
Kalogeros has natural clay. Mix a little clay with seawater, apply a thin layer, let it dry 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off in the sea. Set your towel higher on the beach, since occasional boat wakes can push small sets of waves up the shore.
Best beaches for snorkeling?
The rocky edges of Lolantonis, Tripiti, Makria Miti, Faragas, and coves around Naoussa Bay. Bring your own mask. Early morning is clearest before wind and swimmers stir up the water.
Can I do water sports from the beach?
Yes. Golden Beach and New Golden are hubs for windsurfing in Paros and wing foiling. You will also find sea kayaking in Paros routes from Naoussa Bay and the southeast on calm mornings. For lessons or guided days, browse experiences in Paros.
Do I need a car to reach the best beaches?
Buses reach most major beaches and Paros villages in summer, but a vehicle adds freedom to chase wind shelter. See car rentals in Paros, ATV and scooter rentals in Paros, or e-bike rentals in Paros. For door-to-door comfort, book private transfers in Paros.
When do beaches get crowded?
Late June to early September, especially Kolymbithres, Santa Maria, Monastiri, and beaches near Parikia. Arrive before 10:00 to park easily and get front-row sunbeds, or choose calmer coasts on high-wind days.
Sunrise and sunset spots?
Sunrise is magical on the east and southeast coasts around Drios, Golden Beach, Molos, and Kalogeros. Sunsets glow on the west near Krios, Marcelo, Parasporos, and Agia Irini. We will publish separate guides, but this rule of thumb works.
Where can I find hidden beaches?
We keep a curated Hidden Beaches of Paros list for newsletter friends. Ask for a pass and we will send directions, parking notes, and wind tips. It keeps the small coves special and rewards travelers who care about the island.
What To Do Next:
You’ve got your shortlist of the best beaches in Paros. Now plug them into your plan.
Cross-check wind and routes with boat tours in Paros.
Mix in experiences in Paros for non-beach days.
Pick a handy base in where to stay in Paros.
Explore nearby streets with the Paros villages guide.
Keep moving simple with private transfers in Paros or rentals in Paros.
If you love golden hours, bookmark sunsets and sunrises in Paros.